Kanji characters can have deep significance

Japan has been using Chinese characters since they were imported from Sui Dynasty China in the 6th century. Although the Japanese language did not quite fit with Chinese writing, over the centuries, they adapted and transformed it to suit their needs.

When we look into Chinese characters, called kanji in Japanese, we find they can conjure up both delightful images and deep meaning.

Let’s look at a few kanji that express life lessons. The first two were shared with me by my elderly Japanese friend.

Ningen

These kanjis are read as ningen which means human being.

The first kanji means person. The second means interval or relationship. When combined, they illustrate that in order to be human, we need relationships and interactions with others.

“No man is an island.” — John Donne

Seikatsu

These kanji, read seikatsu, mean living or one’s daily existence. The first kanji means life. The second means action or vigor. To truly live, we must be active.

Ninja

The character for ninja 忍 is written with a blade, 刃, over the character for heart or spirit, 心. Ninjas are legendary for their unrivaled stealth and skill. If we carry the strength of a katana in our hearts, we, like ninjas, can overcome hardships with grace and skill.

Speaking of hardship…

Happiness vs. Hardship

The kanji on the left is tsurai, meaning bitter hardship. The kanji on the right is saiwai meaning happiness. As you can see, adding the one line pictured in the middle changes hardship to happiness.

When people experience hard times, perhaps a change as tiny as one little line is all that separates them from joy.

Let us never underestimate the power of a tiny act of kindness.

References:

allworddic.com, my dear friend Mori-san.

The post 4 Kanji and Their Hidden Meanings first appeared on More Than Tokyo and is written by Diane Tincher.